Washington Update (June 2025)-Recording

Video Transcription

Video Summary

In this Washington Update webinar, David Boehm, Senior VP of Government Relations at the American Association of Community Colleges (AACC), joined to discuss the current legislative landscape in Washington, D.C., focusing on the proposed budget reconciliation bill (H.R. 1) and its potential impact on higher education. The House passed the bill narrowly, and it includes significant financial cuts and policy changes that could adversely affect student aid and community colleges.<br /><br />Key concerns include a large cut to Pell Grants and changes in eligibility, the elimination of several educational support programs, and the introduction of risk-sharing provisions that may disincentivize colleges from enrolling high-risk students. The Senate's response is pending, with potential challenges under the Byrd Rule, which dismisses provisions only incidentally related to budgetary measures.<br /><br />The webinar emphasized the importance of advocacy, urging institutions and their alumni to contact Congress, especially as provisions like the increased endowment tax pose profound implications. Despite these challenges, there is cautious optimism about negotiating changes as the Senate deliberates, with advocacy from higher education institutions making a discernible impact. Participants were encouraged to continue engaging with lawmakers to shape the legislative outcomes favorably.

Keywords

legislative landscape

budget reconciliation bill

higher education

Pell Grants

risk-sharing provisions

advocacy

endowment tax

community colleges

Congress